Matas Buzelis & Josh Giddey See Fantasy Basketball Values Rise Amidst Norman Powell Trade Rumors
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The Chicago Bulls rough 1-6 start to the 2026-27 season has sparked early trade speculation around guard Norman Powell. Following a summer move to the Windy City, Powell has continued to deliver as a primary scoring option, but potential roster restructuring creates significant fantasy implications across the Bulls' lineup.
If Chicago chooses to field offers and move Powell prior to the trade deadline, a huge void opens in field-goal attempts, usage percentage, and perimeter volume.
Why Norman Powell Is a Major Fantasy Storyline
Powell isn't a fringe rotation piece, but a main focal point in the Bulls' offense, averaging roughly 30 minutes per game.
2025-26 Production: 21.7 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 2.5 APG, 2.7 3PM (47% FG, 38% 3PT)
2026-27 Early Production: 20.3 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 1.7 APG
Role: High-volume scoring and primary floor-spacing threat on the perimeter.
Moving Powell would free up significant scoring usage and rotational minutes, creating buy-low and waiver-wire opportunities for managers monitoring the Bulls' depth chart.
The Biggest Beneficiaries
Matas Buzelis (SF/PF)
Current Production: 13 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 1.9 APG Fantasy Impact: High-end breakout candidate.
Buzelis stands to gain the most from Powell's potential departure. With fewer veteran scorers dominating possessions, Buzelis would gain isolated shot-creation opportunities and more touches in half-court sets. Expect improvements in scoring volume, rebounds, three-pointers, and defensive stocks (steals + blocks). Dynasty and seasonal fantasy managers should consider acquiring Buzelis before trade chatter intensifies.
Josh Giddey (PG/SG)
Current Production: Core facilitator and elite rebounder for his position.
Fantasy Impact: Enhanced offensive control and playmaking share.
Rather than simply receiving additional minutes, Giddey's upside comes from controlling possessions. Powell's absence would shift more ball-handling duties to Giddey, driving up his assist percentage and overall usage rate. While his rebounding provides a steady baseline, increased playmaking makes him a potential top-tier category contributor.
Buddy Hield (SG/SF)
Current Production: Perimeter depth and secondary perimeter scoring.
Fantasy Impact: High-upside streaming target in category formats.
Hield is the direct beneficiary of lost perimeter minutes and spot-up three-point volume. If Powell is dealt, His playing time and shot selection naturally increase, elevating him to a reliable source of 3-pointers and points in 12-team leagues.
What Happens to Powell's Fantasy Value?
Changing scenery doesn't necessarily dictate a decline in fantasy production for Powell. His value depends entirely on his landing spot. A move to a contender could scale back his usage, adjusting his scoring output down while potentially improving his shooting efficiency. Landing with a roster lacking perimeter scoring allows Powell to retain his high-volume role as a primary scoring option and 3-point contributor.
Fantasy managers should not automatically sell low on Powell simply due to trade rumors as system fit and destination will dictate his final fantasy value.
Fantasy Verdict
Chicago's early struggles makes Powell a key trade candidate to watch. Buzelis remains the top buy-low target with second-half breakout potential, while Giddey and Hield offer immediate fantasy upside if a move occurs. Targeted moves ahead of trade announcements can yield significant roster upgrades before the market adjusts.
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Daniel Outerbridge covers the NBA, NFL, WNBA, and MLB with an emphasis on the numbers behind the game. His work breaks down player performance, team strategy, and emerging statistical trends to provide actionable insights for fans and fantasy players. Outerbridge has written for a myriad of other outlets including Anubis Sports and FanSided.